CLAYPOOL — Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a Wednesday evening off-road vehicle accident in which one adult male and one juvenile female sustained injuries.

The accident occurred at approximately 7:32 p.m., near 5527 South CR 50 West, Claypool.

Kevin Deardorff, 58, of Claypool, was operating an ORV on private property with a female juvenile riding passenger behind him. Deardorff lost control of the ORV after cresting a hill at a high rate of speed and struck an embankment. The ORV rolled over and ejected both occupants. The passenger suffered minor injuries and ran back to her parents, who contacted 911.

Indiana Conservation Officers and paramedics arrived on scene at 7:40 p.m. Deardorff complained of extreme abdominal and chest pain and was flown by Lutheran Air Ambulance to Fort Wayne for treatment. The passenger was treated at the scene and was transported to Kosciusko Community Hospital for precautionary measures.

The cause of the accident was determined to be operating at speeds unsafe for terrain conditions. Neither victim was wearing a helmet or proper safety equipment. Indiana Conservation Officers stress safe operation of ORVs and the use of proper protective equipment such as helmets.

Indiana Conservation Officers were assisted by Kosciusko County Sheriff Department, Claypool Fire Department and Lutheran EMS.